Gateway to Nature: Getting ready for autumn

By Dave Lewis, Director of Operations 

As summer draws to a close, we’re reaching an exciting stage in the Gateway to Nature project.

Over the past few months, visitors have watched new infrastructure gradually take shape around the Earth Trust Centre. While much of the work has been practical and often hidden behind fencing and construction vehicles, every step is helping create a more welcoming and accessible starting point for people exploring the Wittenham Clumps and the wider landscape.

Gateway to Nature is about making it easier for more people to discover this special place, build their confidence in the countryside, and develop their own connection with nature. As we move into autumn, that vision is beginning to feel much closer.

Progress on the ground

The most visible change is the new linear car park, which is now approaching completion.  This will allow us to increase parking capacity.  Our current car parks already overflow on busy days, so these additions will make it easier for visitors – from school groups to weekend walkers – to access our site safely, as well as protect the landscape.

While final completion won’t come until later in the year, we have worked closely with the contractors so we can have partial handover of the site during September. This means we can start using specific elements and begin our land management of the site including planting and seeding.

Creating a warmer welcome

Alongside the construction work, plans continue to progress for the future café and shop.  We are working towards our final renovation plans for this welcoming space, creating a dedicated hub where visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments.

The café will play an important role within Gateway to Nature. As well as providing practical facilities, it will help create a place where people feel comfortable beginning their visit, whether they’re regular visitors or exploring the countryside for the first time.

Earth Adventure moves forward

We’re also making good progress with Earth Adventure, the natural playscape planned as part of Gateway to Nature.

Designed to encourage children to explore, play and connect with the natural world, Earth Adventure will complement the wider Gateway to Nature project by helping families experience the landscape in new and engaging ways.

We continue to work through the necessary approvals before we can begin construction and announce the likely opening date.

Looking ahead

There is a real sense that we are entering the final stages of this phase of construction.

Much of the work happening now focuses on finishing details rather than major earthworks and excavation. While these activities can be less dramatic to see, they are the final steps towards creating a gateway that will welcome thousands of people into this landscape every year.

Gateway to Nature has always been about more than new facilities. It’s about helping more people experience the benefits of spending time in nature, making the countryside feel accessible and welcoming, and creating opportunities for people to develop a lasting connection with the natural world.

We’re looking forward to sharing more progress soon as we continue working towards opening this new gateway to the Wittenham Clumps and the wider Earth Trust landscape.

I will keep sharing updates as we go, alongside refreshes to our FAQs.